We all take naps due to our busy work schedules or when we feel sleepy. Naps help us feel fresh and more active. According to the recent study, it is seen that several colleges, companies and other business places have installed nap rooms which help in boosting productivity. Whether taking a nap is good for you or not, it all depends on what is the reason for the nap. If you spend most of the day sleeping, then you might feel like taking a nap due to reasons like stressful situations, sleep apnea, insomnia or various other medical conditions.
According to the top psychologists, daytime napping indicates ill health leading to increased mortality rates. Daytime drowsiness seems like a sign and symptom of different health issues rather than being a cause. But naps are defined as the sleeping period of 15-90 minutes where it aids in improving the brain functions, enhances your memory, allows you to focus and be attentive leading to increased creativity. Some people might find naps are the source of restoring the whole night’s sleep. Immediate naps help in recharging the willpower and aids in lowering stress. Napping also helps in lowering the inflammatory markers within the body along with the lower risk of cardiovascular disease. It all depends on your brain however, some people might feel like crap after a nap. Genetics also defines whether some people are nappers or not.
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People who are habitual nappers go into the light sleep during their nap and feel alert and energized without feeling any discomfort while those who take the nap without being their habit, they fall into the deep sleep and wake up feeling all groggy. Natural nappers need a nap whether they are busy or what, if they don’t take a nap they need stimulating drinks like energy drinks or caffeine which makes them energetic but these drinks are not so effective when compared to the daytime snooze for few minutes. These people account for around 40% who need a nap which will otherwise lower their productivity. It is because of this reason that colleges, business places, and universities are compelled to create nap rooms for their students and employees. The ideal length of each nap is around 20-30 minutes which can extend to around 90 minutes depending on the benefits. It is better to try different lengths of nap to find out when you feel refreshed.
If you haven’t tried napping until now, try keeping your nap length short, not more than 15 minutes where you can keep your eye shut and feel relaxed for a few minutes. It prevents the body and brain from slipping into a deep sleep which might make you feel cloudy and foggy. But if you are unable to take a nap then don’t force yourself to do so as each one of us is different. If you are okay with what you are doing then stick to it without altering your lifestyle. Napping has beneficial effects along with the drawbacks. It makes you relaxed, improves alertness, enhances your performance, improves mood. If the nap is of more than the mentioned time then it can result in nighttime sleep issues, disorientation, and fatigue. Try taking a nap when you slept less due to long working hours, you experienced sleepiness or you prefer including naps in your everyday routine.
Until next time,
Team Doctor ASKY!